The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) recommends testing your smoke alarms at least once a year. Approximately two-thirds of home fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or non-working smoke detectors. When smoke alarms failed to work when they should have, it is usually because the batteries were missing, disconnected or dead.
The NFPA suggests using one of the two annual Daylight Savings Time days (or both!) can be a simple reminder to check your smoke alarm batteries. Check your batteries this weekend and test your smoke alarms.
Here are some additional important tips for you to monitor your smoke alarms…
- Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
- Make sure everyone in the home understands the sound of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond.
- Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
- Replace the smoke alarm immediately if it doesn’t respond properly when tested.
- Smoke alarms with non-replaceable (long-life) batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, it is a warning that the battery is low … therefore, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.
- For smoke alarms with any other type of battery, replace batteries at least once a year. If the alarm chirps, replace only the battery.
Live safely my friends!
